A landscape architect who landed a coveted job abroad is encouraging others in the industry to apply for the opportunity of a lifetime.

A landscape architect who landed a coveted job abroad is encouraging others in the industry to apply for the opportunity of a lifetime.

Nicholas Petridis, 21, moved to Edinburgh after receiving a Queensland Overseas Foundation scholarship, which gives specially selected young tradespeople who have completed their formal apprenticeships or vocational training the opportunity to live and work overseas in a country of their choice for up to two years.

The scholarships are valued at up to $7000, and with applications for the 2012 round now open, Mr Petridis is encouraging others to join him.

Mr Petridis said anyone who may be eligible for this year’s round should not hesitate to be in the running. “Everybody interested in going abroad to enhance their career should definitely just jump on the website and apply,” he said. “The scholarship really is a passport to the world.”

To be eligible, applicants must be Queensland residents and have completed an apprenticeship or traineeship, Certificate III or above or a vocational Certificate IV or above, and gained work experience in the industry.

Queensland Overseas Foundation Chair Rebecca Hall said the scholarships were an opportunity not to miss. “These Queenslanders are able to get an international vocational experience that they otherwise may not have,” Ms Hall said. “No matter what trade or vocation you are in, we really encourage people who think they might be eligible to apply through the website.”

The Queensland Overseas Foundation is a voluntary, non-profit organisation that has provided annual scholarships to high achieving Queenslanders for the past 28 years with the goal of bringing the best global practices back to Queensland industries.

The Foundation is sponsored by Queensland Industry and supported by the State Government to enable recipients to broaden their horizons and expand their skills.

Applications close 31 October 2012.

To apply, visit www.qof.org.au, or join the Queensland Overseas Foundation on Facebook or Twitter (@QOFoundation).